Saturday, February 4, 2012

Weekend Worship—Clinging

But test all things.
Hold on to what is good. I Thessalonians 5:21

Every year, since 1996, God has given me a verse of
Scripture for the upcoming year. These verses have been my anchors in a
storm-tossed life more often than you might imagine. This past December, I was
challenged by a close friend to ask God for more than a verse for the year to
come, but to give me a specific word. I promised to pray, but was uncertain how
God would choose to answer. He answered almost immediately with this verse from
I Thessalonians and the word, cling.

I felt He was warning me about my tendency to say yes to
every opportunity that comes my way. He wanted me to stay close and cling to
His wisdom so I wouldn't find myself overwhelmed and exhausted.

This past week, barely into February, God has already
had to send me a strict reminder about this verse. I found myself with a health
scare that has forced a re-assessment of all I'm involved in. It has been a
time of readjustment and I'm not finished...truthfully I'll probably not ever
be finished. This has shown me that whenever I drift even a short way from
God's side I put myself in harm’s way. So this will be my year of learning how
to cling to God, letting him prioritize my time, and use me to accomplish His
will.

How well I understand your words, Edie. I've had to guard my health and sleep closely since my accident years ago. You're one of the brightest and the best at what you do. Your light will shine brightly, even if you slow down a bit to focus on your health. May God bless you in the days ahead.